Community Gathering Reports – Winter 2017

Between January and March, David Coon and the City Councillors across Fredericton South held a third round of Community Gatherings to connect with the people they represent. They reported back on their work at the legislature and City Hall, took questions on a variety of issues took part in productive conversations with those in attendance.

One of the great things that these gatherings have done is bring people in the community together to talk about and share exciting ideas, bring up pressing questions and issues, and prompt action from each other as well as their elected officials. Many of the issues and questions brought up at these meetings are followed up with concrete actions, including questions or statements raised in the legislature, proposals to city staff, and meetings with community and political leaders to press for change. These meetings can also serve as a catalyst, prompting action from within the communities, and facilitating a collaborative relationship between communities and politicians.

One constant theme that came up at every Community Gathering was the issue of the UNB Pool closure. This was without a doubt the hottest issue. Other topics ranged from snow removal to better senior homes, from basic guaranteed income to improved highway signage.